2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series: MB’s Top Tire Shredder

At 583 horse and with a 0-60 time of 3.7 seconds, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is already a powerful, torque-happy machine. But add the words Black Series to the name and the car becomes a whole different beast. The 2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series is the top dog of the current Mercedes-Benz lineup and the fifth Black Series model to come out of Stuttgart (after the 2006 SLK55 AMG Black Series, the 2008 CLK63 AMG Black Series, the 2009 SL65 AMG Black Series and the 2013 C63 AMG Black Series).

With a curb weight of 3,417 pounds thanks to loads of lightweight materials and a 6.3 liter AMG V8 churning out a massive 622 horse and 468 pound-feet of torque, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series boasts an impressive power-to-weight ratio of 5.49 pound per horsepower. That’s enough oomph per pudge to propel the SLS AMG Black Series from 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds and onto a top speed of 196 mph. Actually, Mercedes claims a 3.5 second 0-60 time, but they are notoriously conservative on acceleration. So, the figure will probably be closer to the low threes. Power is routed to the wheels via the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed dual-clutch transmission with very, very quick shift times.

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series is available at your local MB dealer for the low, low price of $275,000 (plus $1,800 destination charge). For that money, there’s a lot of competiton (Ferrari 458 Speciale, Lamborghini Gallard0 LP570-4 Superleggera, and so on), but none of them have gullwing doors. For more info, check out the tech specs and the very detailed press release below.

Press Release

2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series Press Release

Extreme performance for the road

Mercedes-AMG presents the most extreme version of the celebrated SLS, the 2014 model-year SLS AMG Black Series. Inspired by the SLS AMG GT3 race car, the fifth Black Series model from Mercedes-AMG boasts a mix of breathtaking design, outstanding driving dynamics and uncompromising lightweight construction in line with the AMG Lightweight Performance strategy. With a curb weight of 3,417 pounds, the2014 SLS AMG Black Series achieves a power/weight ratio of 5.49 lb / hp. The AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine generates 622 horsepower at 7,400 rpm and accelerates the most dynamic SLS of all time to 60 mph in only 3.5 seconds.

The SLS AMG Black Series achieves a whole new level of performance with its AMG Adaptive Performance Coil-over Suspension, AMG high- performance ceramic two-piece brake system and weight-optimized, forged AMG light-alloy wheels with new sport tires. Additional highlights include electronically-controlled AMG rear-axle differential lock and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission featuring spectacular shift and response times. The available AMG Aerodynamics package delivers a further boost to the vehicle’s handling and dynamics. The 2014 SLS AMG Black Series went on sale in the U.S. in summer 2013.

Black Series is a name that resonates with automobile experts and enthusiasts worldwide. Following the SLK55 AMG Black Series from 2006 (European model), the 2008 CLK63 AMG Black Series, the 2009 SL65 AMG Black Series and the 2013 C63 AMG Black Series, the fifth in the lineup sees the Black Series enter a whole new dimension with the iconic SLS AMG.

“The new SLS AMG Black Series is a perfect study in the one hundred percent transfer of technology and engineering from motorsport to road. We have drawn inspiration from the worldwide success of the SLS AMG GT3 customer sport racing car on both a conceptual and a technological level. Boasting numerous lightweight components and fascinating dynamics, our fifth Black Series model guarantees pure, unadulterated ‘Driving Performance.’ The SLS AMG Black Series is the ultimate choice for fast laps and a highly emotional driving experience,” says Ola Källenius, outgoing Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

“Fans of high-performance super sports cars will be fascinated by its high-tech package. The basis for passionate performance and supreme driving dynamics is provided by numerous new developments in the engine, transmission, suspension and aerodynamics – also giving top priority to our ‘AMG Lightweight Performance’ strategy. Outstanding efforts in the field of lightweight design have resulted in a curb weight of 3,417 pounds,” notes Tobias Moers, incoming CEO and former Head of Total Vehicle Development and Member of the Board of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine – synonymous with thrilling driving dynamics

The uprated AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine generates 622 hp and 468 lb-ft of torque, making the 2014 SLS AMG Black Series the most powerful AMG high- performance automobile with a combustion engine. Only the SLS AMG Electric Drive with a maximum output of 740 hp has more power.

The 2014 SLS AMG Black Series accelerates to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, and onward to a top speed of 196 mph of power. Compared to the 583 hp delivered by the SLS AMG GT, the additional 39 hp of the Black Series is a result of the following enhancements:

Increase in maximum engine speed from 7,200 to 8,000 rpm

Fully revised high-speed valve train with modified camshafts geometry and optimized bucket cam followers featuring a special coating that is typically used on race vehicles

Modification of intake air ducting: de-throttling and adaptation to match the new maximum engine speed

Adaptation of engine mapping and increase in intake pressure

The engineers at Mercedes-AMG have further optimized the crankshaft assembly for optimum stability in tough race track conditions. This includes modified oil bores in the crankshaft, new crankshaft bearings, a new oil pump and high-strength connecting rod bolts. The entire water and oil cooling system for the engine and transmission has been optimized further.

The AMG V8 engine in the SLS AMG Black Series also has an additional specialized mounting system. A gas-filled strut braces the eight-cylinder engine against the body, effectively eliminating undesired load shifts during highly-dynamic race-track driving. In line with the AMG philosophy “one man, one engine,” the 6.3-liter V8 engine is hand-built in the AMG factory in Affalterbach, Germany. This hand-made quality is confirmed by the black AMG engine badge bearing the signature of the engine builder, which is a hallmark of the Black Series models.

Key data at a glance:

SLS AMG Black Series

Displacement

6,208 cc

Bore x stroke

4.02 x 3.72 inches

Compression ratio

11.3 : 1

Horsepower

622 hp at 7,400 rpm

Max. torque

468 lb-ft at 5,500 rpm

Max. engine speed

8,000 rpm

Engine weight (dry)

452 lbs

Acceleration 0-60 mph

3.5 seconds

Top speed

196 mph

With a front mid-engine layout behind the front axle, the naturally aspirated V8 boasts racing car responsiveness and exceptional high-revving performance. The racetrack credentials of the powerful AMG V8 engine are also apparent from its sound.

Produced for the first time in titanium, the newly designed AMG sport exhaust system features performance-enhancing, fan-type exhaust manifolds with distinctive center and rear mufflers, delivering a more powerful and even more striking engine sound. The switch from steel to titanium results in substantial weight savings: at just under 37.5 pounds, the new AMG sports exhaust system is around 28.7 pounds lighter than its predecessor.

Systematic application of the AMG Lightweight Performance strategy

With a curb weight of 3,417 pounds, the 2014 SLS AMG Black Series is not only 154 pounds lighter than the SLS AMG, but also attains the best power/weight ratio by far of all AMG Black Series vehicles to date. Even among super sports cars, the figure of 5.49 lb / hp is extremely competitive, made possible by consistent application of the “AMG Lightweight Performance” strategy.

Numerous body parts, such as the hood, the rear panel behind the AMG sports bucket seats, the diagonal braces on the underbody and the torque tube between engine and transmission are made entirely from CFRP (carbon-fiber reinforced plastic). In contrast to its 58.6-pound counterpart with a sand-cast aluminum housing, the carbon-fiber torque tube weighs just 29.3 pounds. As before, a CFRP drive shaft weighing just 10.4 pounds handles power transmission between the engine and dual-clutch transaxle, which is flange- mounted on the rear axle. CFRP components also replace a number of parts on the aluminum spaceframe, while a lithium-ion battery takes on the role of a conventional starter battery, saving another 17.6 pounds.

Dual-clutch transmission for even smoother performance

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission is installed 0.4 inches lower to provide an even lower center of gravity and is braced against the body by gas-filled struts to avoid undesirable load shifts. The dual-clutch transmission features four drive modes: C, S, S+ and M. “Sport plus” and “Manual” deliver even more aggressive performance than in the SLS AMG and SLS AMG GT models. In addition to an increase in shifting speed, the transmission also responds faster to the driver’s shift commands.

An even more thrilling feature is the automatic rev-matching function during downshifting: the throttle blips when shifting gears are more pronounced and more striking than ever due to the AMG titanium sports exhaust system.

There is also a new temporary M mode. In C, S or S+ mode, this enables the driver to activate manual mode without taking a hand from the steering wheel, by pressing the “up” or “down” shift paddle once. In temporary M mode the driver experiences the dynamism and performance of gear-shifting in manual mode in all of the automatic driving programs, with automatic up and down- shifting as well. This allows drivers to devote their full attention to the vehicle’s impressive performance.

New electronic AMG rear-axle differential lock

A new electronically controlled AMG rear-axle differential lock with a shorter rear axle ratio replaces the mechanical variant. Integrated into the compact transmission housing, this system operates with a variable locking effect under acceleration and deceleration. In addition, the electronics are now more responsive, enabling excellent traction for the rear wheels under all road conditions. The electronic AMG rear-axle differential lock also benefits safety. By reducing the vehicle’s yaw around its vertical axis, the system provides a stabilizing effect in slaloms or when changing lane at high speeds.

The standard three-stage ESP® system featuring the functions “ESP ON”, “ESP SPORT Handling Mode” and “ESP OFF” is precision-tuned to the electronic AMG rear-axle differential lock. The same applies to the RACE START function, which works with the electronic differential lock to provide perfect traction when accelerating from a standing start.

AMG Adaptive Performance Suspension and sports tires

The chassis and suspension of the 2014 SLS AMG Black Series are also new. While the basic layout with aluminum double wishbones at all four corners remains unchanged, virtually every single component has been refined for significantly enhanced track performance.

AMG speed-sensitive steering with revised power steering characteristics for optimum steering precision and outstanding control

Standard AMG high-performance ceramic two-piece brake system

The brake system on the SLS AMG Black Series boasts excellent deceleration performance and outstanding stability. The standard AMG high-performance ceramic two-piece brake system measures 15.8 x 1.5 inches at the front and 14.2 x 1.3 inches at the rear, and feature increased hardness for enhanced thermal stability, combined with a weight reduction of around 40 percent over their steel/aluminum counterparts. As a result of this reduced unsprung weight, they optimize both comfort and grip, while the reduced rotating masses on the front deliver a more direct steering response. The weight savings is approximately 35.3 pounds, compared to a conventional steel / aluminum brake system.

Design inspired by the SLS AMG GT3 race car

The design of the SLS AMG Black Series takes its cues from the SLS AMG GT3 race car, which was developed in accordance with FIA GT3 rules and has quickly become established as a serious contender among the super sports car elite.

In the 2012 motorsport season the SLS AMG GT3 is competing in more than 15 series on four continents. The triple victory in the 24-hour Dubai race in January 2012, three driver and team titles in the FIA GT3 European Championship, the ADAC GT Masters and the FIA GT3 World Championship, along with numerous podium places at various short-distance, four and six-hour races provide impressive documentation of the SLS AMG GT3’s sporty performance. The car has notched over 100 victories since 2010 when the Customer Racing program began.

Flared fenders with an added width of 0.5 inches in front and 1.0 inch at the rear on each side create the necessary space for the 10.8-inch and 12.8-inch sports tires. Tinted headlights and black surrounds for the rear lights give the SLS AMG Black Series a muscular and aggressive look. The vehicle’s aerodynamic balance is optimized by front, rear and side skirts and a rear diffuser, all in a signature Black Series design. The package features extensive use of CFRP on the front splitter, side sills and rear skirt. Enlarged air intakes with carbon-fiber flics also ensure optimum airflow into the cooling modules at the front.

As on the SLS AMG GT3, the carbon-fiber hood features a central air outlet. Aside from effectively dissipating engine heat, this outlet also increases downforce at the front axle and improves the cd value. The wing-like cross-fin and the star recessed into the radiator grille are finished in high-gloss black to match the exterior mirrors and the fins on the hood. The carbon-fiber insert on the sides with air outlet and a black fin is also reminiscent of the GT3; this feature helps reduce the temperature in the engine compartment. The result is maximum stability, even in tough race track use.

Matte black AMG forged wheels in signature Black Series design

A striking feature along the sides is the attractive integration of the side skirts, which combine with the character line for a striking look. The carbon elements fitted along the bottom edges carry the line of the carbon-fiber front splitter through to the rear of the vehicle. AMG forged wheels in a signature Black Series ten-spoke design, painted in matte black with a high-gloss finish, provide glimpses of the AMG ceramic high-performance two-piece brake system. Also available are AMG forged wheels in matte black with a polished flange.

The muscular look of the SLS AMG Black Series carries through to the rear, and its wide fenders and striking rear diffuser are the dominant features. The diffuser extends beyond the rear skirt to produce extra rear downforce for greater stability at high speeds. Visible air openings behind black grilles help discharge hot air around the AMG titanium sports exhaust system. Two sets of twin square cross-section chrome tailpipes are a visual indication of the super sports car’s power – an impression reinforced by the exhaust note. The exclusive AMG logo with contrasting Black Series lettering in black adds a discreet yet striking touch at the top right of the trunk lid.

AMG Aerodynamics package with carbon-fiber components

The SLS AMG Black Series can be upgraded with the optional AMG Aerodynamics package, which features an adjustable carbon-fiber rear wing in place of the standard wind deflector. The rear wing is braced by aluminum elements on the trunk lid that provide even greater downforce on the rear – especially with the Gurney flap, named for its inventor Dan Gurney, a former racing driver, designer and team owner. This 0.3-inch spoiler lip fitted to the rear wing at an angle of 90 degrees delivers a further increase in downforce without significantly increasing drag. The rear wing is complemented by additional carbon-fiber flics on the front skirt, which further increase downforce at the front, as opposed to the standard inward-lying carbon-fiber flics, which optimize airflow into the cooling modules. Eye-catching AMG Solar Beam exterior paint is available exclusively on the SLS AMG Black Series. Six further exterior paint finishes from the SLS AMG range are available, including the matte finish designo magno alanite grey.

Functional, performance interior that exudes quality

The interior of the SLS AMG Black Series features high-quality materials with precision workmanship and exquisitely designed details. There is a choice of two color variants: black designo leather with black Alcantara® or black designo leather with black/red Alcantara®. With the two-tone variant, the door center panels and the applications on the center console and above the glove box are finished in red. The AMG Performance steering wheel with a flattened rim at the bottom is wrapped entirely in Alcantara® for excellent grip. The top section of the steering wheel features a red 12 o’clock marking. The metal bezel has a high-gloss black paint finish to match the high-gloss black surrounds of the air vents.

An exclusive Black Series detail is the “3D seam” that runs horizontally along the dashboard – a fine Alcantara® strip in anthracite running across the entire width of the leather covering. Red contrasting stitching provides a striking finish to the 3D seam, underscoring the hand-crafted character.

The combination of designo leather and Alcantara® features throughout the interior – on the bottom section of the dashboard, on the door center panels and on the AMG sports seats with center sections upholstered in Alcantara®. Embossed AMG logos on the head restraints are further exclusive eye-catchers.

For additional weight savings, the customer may delete the COMAND multimedia system. This reduces the vehicle’s weight by an additional 13 pounds and further enhances the uncompromising character of the SLS AMG Black Series. In place of the screen between the air vents, a carbon-fiber trim element enhances the authentic racing atmosphere.

Vehicle occupants will also find carbon fiber covering the entire center console, which is home to the AMG DRIVE UNIT. Bold highlights come from the red seat belts and red contrasting stitching on the AMG sports bucket seats, the center console, the upper and lower section of the dashboard and the door paneling. The floor mats also feature red piping.

Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system

A highlight among the optional equipment is the Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system, developed by Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG together with renowned Danish audio specialist Bang & Olufsen. The Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system with Dolby Digital 5.1 delivers an exclusive music experience. This is made possible by a 1,000-watt amplifier and 11 speakers in conjunction with precise distribution of the music signals by the sound processor according to the selected seat positions – driver, co-driver or central. The DSP digital sound processor also enables the user to switch between high-end studio sound (“Reference”) and a surround sound option. All features are managed through a special Bang & Olufsen menu in COMAND. The illuminated 50-watt lens tweeters on the dashboard are a highlight, along with the 250-watt subwoofer integrated into the rear shelf. High-quality speaker covers sporting the Bang & Olufsen logo indicate the high-end system’s exclusive character.